“Can you bridle your tongue when your heart is under pressure? That’s how you show that you are wise. An understanding heart keeps you cool, calm, and collected, no matter what you’re facing. When even a fool bites his tongue he’s considered wise. So shut your mouth when you are provoked— it will make you look smart.”
We often encourage people to use their voices, to speak up to not be silent. But we know there are times in life that call for us to keep our mouths closed too. It’s wisdom to know the difference between the right time to speak and the right time to remain quiet. I looked this up in a few translations to see how else an “understanding heart” was described. It was translated as a cool spirit, a calm spirit, a man of understanding, self-control and an even temper. I really think this goes back to what we talked about recently - that when we know our identity in Christ and we have a right view of God we can’t be easily moved off target. It’s that strong assurance, that confidence in Him and in who He says we are that allows us to keep our cool in pressurized situations.
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